Canadians now have access to all-inclusive air prices

WestJet, Air Canada, Porter, Air Transat, Canadian North, First Air, Air Creebec, Sunwing, Air Inuit and Orca Airways are now displaying all-inclusive air prices on their online booking systems — in line with new regulations launched by the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) on Dec. 18. The regulations enable consumers to easily determine the total advertised air price and promote fair competition between all advertisers in the air travel industry. They apply to any person who advertises air prices to the public, for travel within, or originating in Canada, through any media. When searching for an airfare, consumers can now expect to see the total all-inclusive price. Under the all-inclusive pricing rules, the total price of the advertised air service must include all taxes, fees and charges. A basic description of the air service offered must also be included, stating the points of origin and destination, and whether the service is one-way or round trip. Any limitations with respect to booking or travel availability periods should also be stated, and the advertiser must provide access to a breakdown of the taxes, fees and charges, and information on any optional services offered for a fee or charge. The CTA expects air price advertisers to fully comply with the new regulations, as soon as possible. It may impose fines of up to $5,000 against an individual and $25,000 against a corporation where a contravention of these regulations has occurred. (http://www.cta-otc.gc.ca/eng/home)